Läppäprolapsi

Läppäprolapsi, also known as mitral valve prolapse (MVP), is a common cardiac condition where the mitral valve leaflets bulge or prolapse back into the left atrium during ventricular systole. The mitral valve is located between the left atrium and the left ventricle of the heart. Its function is to ensure that blood flows in one direction, from the left atrium to the left ventricle, and to prevent backflow into the atrium when the ventricle contracts. In MVP, one or both of the mitral valve leaflets are unusually flexible or enlarged, allowing them to bulge backward.

Most cases of läppäprolapsi are mild and asymptomatic, meaning individuals are unaware they have the condition. In some instances, it can be associated with chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, or dizziness, though these symptoms are not exclusive to MVP and can have other causes. A characteristic clicking sound may be heard during a physical examination with a stethoscope, and a murmur may also be present if there is a degree of mitral regurgitation, which is the backward leakage of blood through the improperly closing valve.

The exact cause of läppäprolapsi is not always known, but it is often considered a benign condition. It can sometimes be inherited and may be more common in women. In rare cases, severe mitral regurgitation resulting from significant prolapse can lead to complications such as heart failure or arrhythmias, necessitating medical intervention. Diagnosis is typically made through echocardiography, an ultrasound of the heart, which provides detailed images of the valve's structure and function. Treatment is generally not required for asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic cases, but regular monitoring may be recommended. For individuals with significant symptoms or complications, treatment options may include medication or, in severe cases, surgical repair or replacement of the mitral valve.